FA Commission Delivers Severe Sanction
Preston North End striker Milutin Osmajic has been handed a nine-match ban and fined £21,000 after an independent commission found he racially abused Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri during a Championship fixture in February. The Football Association ruled that Osmajic committed an aggravated breach of its conduct rules by using language referencing race during the match.
Player Denies Allegation as Preston Condemns Verdict
Osmajic has denied the charge, maintaining that his comments were misinterpreted. Preston North End released a statement expressing disappointment with the ruling, arguing that the case was decided on a “balance of probabilities” rather than proven beyond reasonable doubt. Despite the decision, the club said it would continue to support the forward, who must also complete an education course as part of his punishment.
Focus Returns to Fight Against Discrimination
The incident reignited discussions about racism in football, with Burnley’s Mejbri reporting the alleged abuse immediately after the game. The sanction means Osmajic will miss several crucial league fixtures as Preston push for points in the Championship. The FA reiterated its commitment to tackling discrimination, stating that strong disciplinary measures remain essential to protecting players and upholding the integrity of the sport.
